Ear infections are one of the most common ailments that we experience. However, people still need to be aware of the prevention methods along with the proper treatments. So, this year, when you feel pain or fullness in your ear, or if you notice fluid leaking or are having trouble hearing, start preparing for a week of remedies and treatment. Or read on to consider the top tips to prevent ear infections this year.
This is a contributed article for your reference for which I may have been compensated.
How do you get ear infections?
You get an ear infection when your middle ear gets clogged due to congestion, which leads to air not getting through. As a result, this creates a moist breeding ground for bad bacteria.
Although ear infections tend to be more common in children, adults can also get them. The risk of an ear infection is relatively higher in the winter as it is when a person is the most vulnerable to colds and flu, which lead to secondary infections.
But, various factors contribute to a higher risk of an ear infection. Most of the time, experts recommend the treatment Earcalm as it promotes early recovery while alleviating symptoms of an ear infection. However, it is advised to take the proper measures to reduce the risk of infection, particularly in the colder months when they are more common.
So, in order to prevent ear infections, consider doing the following:
1. Avoid Smoking
Smoking or inhalation of smoke through second-hand smoking can lead to tube inflammation. This is because cigarette smoke is an irritant. Therefore, cut down on smoking or avoid smoke in general, as it can increase your chances of developing an ear infection. In addition, you can protect your children by making sure to avoid smoking when they are around.
2. Control Allergies
Allergic reactions can cause inflammation and mucus, which can block the eustachian tube and increase the risk of an ear infection. It is best to control allergies and prevent allergic reactions by avoiding irritants in order to avoid ear infections, as well. Invest in good anti-allergy nasal sprays. Try to allergy proof your home before winter if you can.
3. Practice Cold Prevention
Similar to allergic reactions, the sicker you get, the more prone you will be to ear infections. Practising basic hygiene, such as washing your hands before eating, is vital. You should bundle up in the winter to avoid getting sick. Make sure to keep your children away from cesspools of germs and ensure they frequently wash their hands, too.
4. Bottle-feed at an Upright Angle
The best way to prevent ear infections in your child is to make sure that you breastfeed. Also, if you bottle feed, you should always hold your baby at an upright angle – the head of the infant should be higher than the stomach. This is because feeding a child in the horizontal position can lead to formula and other fluids flowing back into the eustachian tubes. However if you want to review the benefits of breastmilk over formula, do your own research to make an informed decision.
5. Mouth Breathing or Snoring
If you snore or breathe through your mouth, you tend to be at a higher risk of developing an ear infection. Individuals often snore or breathe through their mouths due to the presence of large adenoids. Large adenoids are said to contribute to ear infections. If the problem remains consistent, it is advised to get an exam done by an otolaryngologist. If the problem is severe, the otolaryngologist may suggest surgery to remove the adenoids (adenoidectomy).
6. Get Vaccinated
The most convenient way to ensure that you never get sick is to ensure that you and your children are up to date on all vaccinations. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure your child’s immunizations are up to date, including the yearly influenza vaccine (flu shot) for children six months and older. In addition, ask your GP about other vaccines against viral infections too. This can play a crucial role in preventing ear infections.
7. Nasal Irrigation
The eustachian tube needs extra care. It has been established that if the tube gets inflamed, it can be the leading cause of ear infections. So, try the nasal irrigation method daily as it is considered to be the best preventative measure. Also, rinse your nose with saline to clear your passages of irritants and allergens.
8. Keep your Ears Clean and Dry
As mentioned before, proper hygiene can do wonders for your body. The easiest way to prevent an ear infection is by keeping your ears healthy. After taking a shower, use your finger or a tissue to clean your ears. You can even use a blow dryer to clean and dry your ears, but keep the dryer an inch away. It is crucial to avoid using a Q-tip or a cotton swab as it can do more harm than good. In fact, according to experts, cotton swabs can take half of the earwax out of the ear while pushing the other half deep into the ear – where it can become extremely hard to get out.
Earwax is a natural part of the ear and is supposed to be there. It protects the ear from harmful bacteria. There is no need to worry about ‘buildup’ as the excessive earwax comes out in the shower by itself. In addition, you can also use Earcalm after swimming to prevent an ear infection.
I hope these simple tips to prevent ear infections can help you in the coming months.
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